Recovering Academic

Dr. Kristen Witte, Ph.D. We sat down and spoke with Dr. Kristen Witte, an exhibit developer at the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago Illinois. They discuss their transition story, taking some time away from academia to find what's next and the challenge of getting to know yourself in an all-consuming environment that is earning a PhD. "Once I was able to release my identity as a scientist, it allowed space for understanding the other parts of myself that just didn't have space before" Kristen is a recent museum transplant with a scientific background in pipetting - er, cell biology. Having most enjoyed the literature research and storytelling aspects of their Ph.D., Kristen now spends their time in exhibit development at the Museum of Science & Industry where they discover and define the compelling and fascinating stories that resonate with the museum’s diverse audience. Speaking of diversity, Kristen identifies on the non-binary side of the gender galaxy and uses they/them pronouns. They are comm